In a profound loss for the Indian film industry, renowned makeup artist Vikram Gaikwad passed away in Mumbai on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the age of 61. His contributions to cinema spanned over three decades and included an extensive portfolio of work across Hindi, Marathi, and South Indian films, earning him multiple accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Makeup Artist seven times.
Gaikwad’s death was confirmed by his family, who reported that he had been admitted to Hiranandani Hospital in Powai three days prior due to complications related to blood pressure. His younger brother, Dr. Prasanna Paranjpe, noted, "His BP was going low, and we were not able to revive him. He was quite well when admitted. We didn’t expect he would pass away so suddenly." Gaikwad breathed his last around 8:30 AM on Saturday.
His funeral is scheduled to take place at 4:30 PM on the same day at the Shivaji Park Crematorium in Dadar, Mumbai. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences on social media, referring to Gaikwad as "a magician who brought characters to life on the silver screen." Shinde emphasized that Gaikwad’s artistry was instrumental in shaping the visual narrative of Indian cinema, particularly in historical and biographical films.
Vikram Gaikwad’s illustrious career began with the film Sardar, which chronicled the life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. His transformative work gained prominence in notable films such as Uri: The Surgical Strike, Dangal, PK, 3 Idiots, Omkara, and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. His expertise was not limited to Hindi cinema; he made significant contributions to Marathi films, including Lokmanya, Fatteshikast, and Sher Shivraj.
In a heartfelt tribute, actor Aamir Khan shared his sorrow over Gaikwad’s passing, recalling their collaborations on films like Dangal and PK. Khan stated, "It is with great sorrow that we say goodbye to the legendary make-up artist Vikram Gaikwad. He was a true master of his craft and his work transformed many actors into unforgettable characters that will live forever on screen."
Gaikwad was celebrated for his ability to recreate real-life personalities and period characters with astonishing precision. His impressive body of work included prosthetic transformations, realistic aging techniques, and historically accurate looks. He received his first National Film Award for Best Makeup Artist in 2012 for his work on The Dirty Picture, followed by another win in 2014 for the Bengali biopic Jaatishwar.
His death marks the end of an era in Indian film makeup, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence. Filmmaker Jabbar Patel, who collaborated with Gaikwad on the film Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, praised his dedication and artistry, stating, "He was a great man, a 'magician' in India! He brought all this hard work and dedication to the art of makeup."
Gaikwad's impact on the industry was profound, with his work often described as transformative. He was not only a key figure in the cinematic world but also made significant contributions to stage productions, including the iconic play Janata Raja, based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Throughout his career, Gaikwad was known for his collaborative spirit, working closely with directors and actors to create memorable visual experiences. His ability to turn actors into historical figures was unmatched, a skill that earned him respect and admiration from peers and audiences alike.
As the news of his passing spreads, tributes continue to pour in from across the film industry, with many recalling the profound impact he had on their careers. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of makeup artists who aspire to follow in his footsteps.
Vikram Gaikwad's passing is not just a loss for his family and friends but a significant blow to the artistic community that revered him. His work will continue to be celebrated, reminding us of the magic he brought to the screen and the lives he touched through his artistry.
